Delphi

A History of the Center of the Ancient World

Michael Scott

$54.99

Hardback

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English

Princeton University Pres
20 May 2014

History; Ancient history: to c 500 CE; Classical Greek & Roman archaeology

The oracle and sanctuary of the Greek god Apollo at Delphi were known as the ""omphalos""--the ""center"" or ""navel""--of the ancient world for more than 1000 years. Individuals, city leaders, and kings came from all over the Mediterranean and beyond to consult Delphi's oracular priestess; to set up monuments to the gods; and to take part in competitions. In this richly illustrated account, Michael Scott covers the history and nature of Delphi, from the literary and archaeological evidence surrounding the site, to its rise as a center of worship, to the constant appeal of the oracle despite her cryptic prophecies. He describes how Delphi became a contested sacred site for Greeks and Romans and a storehouse for the treasures of rival city-states and foreign kings. He also examines the eventual decline of the site and how its meaning and importance have continued to be reshaped. A unique window into the center of the ancient world, Delphi will appeal to general readers, tourists, students, and specialists.

By: Michael Scott
Imprint: Princeton University Pres
Country of Publication: United States
Dimensions: Height: 235mm, Width: 152mm, Spine: 31mm
Weight: 765g
ISBN: 9780691150819
ISBN 10: 0691150818
Pages: 448
Publication Date: 20 May 2014
Audience: General/trade , College/higher education , ELT Advanced , Primary
Format: Hardback
Publisher's Status: Active

Acknowledgments xi Maps xiii Prologue: Why Delphi? 1 Part I: Some are born great 1: Oracle 9 2: Beginnings 31 3: Transformation 51 4: Rebirth 71 Part II : Some achieve greatness 5: Fire 93 6: Domination 119 7: Renewal 139 8: Transition 163 Part III: Some have greatness thrust upon them 9: A New World 183 10: Renaissance 203 11: Final Glory? 223 12: The Journey Continues 245 Epilogue: Unearthing Delphi 269 Conclusion 285 Guide: A Brief Tour of the Delphi Site and Museum 291 Abbreviations 303 Notes 309 Bibliography 375 Index 401

Michael Scott is assistant professor of classics and ancient history at the University of Warwick. His books include From Democrats to Kings: The Brutal Dawn of a New World from the Downfall of Athens to the Rise of Alexander the Great (Overlook). He has also written and presented a number of ancient history documentaries for National Geographic, the History channel, Nova, and the BBC, including one on Delphi. His website is www.michaelscottweb.com.

Reviews for Delphi: A History of the Center of the Ancient World

[D]eftly combines literary and material evidence... Overall, Scott offers a broad and well-documented history of the Delphic oracle, including an (excellent) epilogue on how the site was rediscovered at the end of the 19th century. --Barbara Graziosi, Times Higher Education Scott's passion and expertise are readily apparent... An enjoyable resource for scholars and students. Additionally, prospective visitors to the modern site of Delphi will be interested in Scott's brief guide, which is included at the back of the book. --Publishers Weekly Tells you everything there is to know about Delphi. --Sam Leith, Spectator A traveler on a typical ten-hour flight to Greece from the United States will find this book to be a valuable and entertaining companion. --About.com Greece Travel